The Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) have emerged as the most decisive force in Bihar’s upcoming 2025 assembly elections. Making up 36% of the state’s population, EBC voters can single-handedly swing the political tide. Combined with Other Backward Classes (OBCs), they form nearly 63% of Bihar’s total population, turning this bloc into a true kingmaker.
According to Vivek Kumar, a social scientist at Jawaharlal Nehru University, EBCs will play a crucial role in shaping the state’s political future. He highlighted that many EBC women are now voting independently, often without informing their families, while the youth are becoming more politically aware and assertive.
Historically, EBCs strongly backed Nitish Kumar and the NDA, helping them secure major victories in 2005 and 2010. But their support slipped in 2015 and 2020, prompting the RJD-led Grand Alliance to court them actively. The alliance recently elevated leaders from EBC backgrounds, including Mangani Lal Mandal and Abhay Kushwaha, and nominated Mukesh Sahni for Deputy Chief Minister.
With over 130 sub-castes, no single group dominates the EBC landscape. Their collective choice could decide who governs Bihar next year. If united, they could reshape the state’s political map once again.
